Capturing the Perfect Senior Portrait: Tips for Minnesota Seniors
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Embracing the Experience
I know you may be nervous; photography is an exchange that requires a lot of trust and vulnerability. Even after 20 years in the business, I don’t like having my photo taken! Moving from taking selfies on your phone to having a stranger photograph you can feel like giving up creative control. But senior portraits are all about YOU! They should document exactly who you are and what you love. My job is to make you feel comfortable enough for your authentic self to shine through in my photographs. If you want to do a style consultation or discovery call to get to know me before the big day, absolutely reach out! If phone calls aren’t your thing, message me on Instagram or Facebook with any questions. My passion for photography largely comes from connecting with people and capturing how they want to be remembered, so help me help you have the best session ever!
Finding Inspiration & Planning Your Session!
You can always check out my personal portfolio, but in the age of the internet, inspiration is everywhere! I always recommend taking some time to prepare for your senior photos by making a Pinterest board or saving posts on Instagram. If you share these with me or bring them up during our complimentary styling consultation call, I can help advise you on what to bring the day of your session. If you find any location-specific photos, I can also suggest possible venues for us to travel to.
Take Maria, for example: she’s a cool senior who loves to spend time skateboarding in an abandoned building with her friends. So, where did we take the photos? That very same building! By moving the session from my studio to a place she is familiar with, we got amazing shots that really capture her spirit. The best part? The possibilities are endless! From various mural backgrounds around the Twin Cities to places that reflect your hobbies (like the Walker’s Sculpture Garden or Electric Fetus), we can make whatever vision you have come to life.
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![Great River School student Maria in her senior photos holding her skateboard captured by Malone Portraits in Minneapolis.](https://maloneportraits.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Screenshot-2024-07-12-at-4.32.40 PM.png)
Dressing for Success
Above anything else, I recommend wearing clothes that make you feel confident. If you don’t feel comfortable and secure, it will show in the pictures! I also suggest bringing more than one outfit, especially if we’re doing multiple locations or backgrounds. Trends come and go, but your personal style is important to capture.
Note to parents: if your senior is not as excited for their photo session as you are, suggest going shopping for a new accessory or outfit for them to wear. (or getting their nails done!) This can help them feel special and build anticipation for the big day. I have connections to local boutique owners and can get a discount for my clients, just ask!
When choosing outfits, also consider bringing an option for what I call “grandma photos.” This means a polished, buttoned-up look that your grandma would love to see pictures of you in. This makes ordering holiday gifts easy, as you can order a variety of albums, prints, and wall art when you receive your gallery on Pictime. Check out the variety in Nora’s outfits below for inspiration.
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Making the Most of Minnesota Locations
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Minnesota offers a wealth of beautiful backdrops for senior portraits. From the serene landscapes of local parks to a downtown vibe, we can find the perfect setting to match your style and personality. Whether you prefer urban, rural, or something in between, I’m here to help you choose the best locations that reflect who you are.
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MY MOST POPULAR LOCATIONS:
New Plymouth Location!
Our new Plymouth location offers a serene and beautiful setting with private lake access, gardens, outdoor trails, a bridge, and train tracks. This location is perfect for seniors who want to be surrounded by nature. The variety of scenic spots ensures we can capture your senior in a setting that complements their personality and style.
My Minneapolis Studio
Our studio, located in the vibrant NE Minneapolis Arts District, offers a versatile and creative environment for senior portraits. The studio’s artistic ambiance, with its natural light and eclectic decor, provides a perfect backdrop for capturing unique and expressive images.
Nicollet Island
For seniors who love an urban yet natural setting, Nicollet Island is an ideal location. The island’s historic buildings, lush greenery, and picturesque views of the Mississippi River create a diverse array of backdrops. This location is perfect for seniors who want a blend of city and nature in their portraits.
Connecting With Your Photographer
Building a connection with your photographer is crucial for a successful session. Feel free to reach out to me with any questions or concerns. My goal is to make you feel comfortable and confident, ensuring that your senior portraits are a true reflection of your personality. Let’s collaborate to create images that you will cherish for a lifetime.
By following these tips, we can make your senior portrait session a memorable and enjoyable experience. Don’t miss out on capturing this milestone in a way that’s uniquely you. Reach out soon to secure your spot, and let’s make some magic happen!
Book Your Early Bird Session Today!
Have you booked your senior session yet? If not, now’s the time! Late summer and fall are the BUSIEST seasons for photographers, myself included. Don’t miss out on capturing this milestone in a way that’s uniquely YOU. Whether you’re into timeless portraits or something totally unique, l love bringing creative visions to life. Reach out soon to secure your spot (with flexible booking!) and let’s make some magic happen! Celebrate your senior’s journey and achievements with a creative portrait photography session. Contact us today to book your Senior Summer Early Bird Special and create lasting memories that you and your family will cherish for years to come.
Essentials Package
- Description: Capture the essence of your senior year with a focused and efficient photo session.
– 45 minutes
– 5 fully retouched digital images
– Option to purchase additional images
– Image selection via online gallery
– Option to purchase albums & wall art with early bird pricing
Deluxe Package
Deluxe Senior Package – $675
- Description: Enjoy a more comprehensive photo experience with additional time and more images to choose from.
– 75-minute session
– 5 fully retouched digital images
– Option to purchase additional images
– Complimentary styling consultation
– Image selection via online gallery
– Option to purchase albums & wall art with early bird pricing
Ultimate Package
Ultimate Senior Package – $825
- Description: Celebrate your senior year with our most extensive package, offering the maximum flexibility, variety, and outfit changes.
– 90-minute session
– 5 fully retouched digital images, custom retouching requests included
– Option to purchase additional images
– 2 print packages included
– Complimentary styling consultation
– Image selection via online gallery
– Option to purchase albums & wall art with early bird pricing